Dear Partners in Separation:

As you may have noticed, I resist pastoral letters that are pep talks to increase participation in activities and generosity in giving. Not that these things are unimportant; I just believe that generosity and activity are consequences of a growing faith, not of goals. Still, every once in a while, it’s good to check in on our progress.

Just this past Sunday, the Sanctuary was completely empty for both services, and not one nickel or envelope was found in the offering plates. Coffee urns remained empty, the Faith Forest room quiet, the balcony completely free from choral sound;